Great Safaris Trip Itinerary for Angela Schaefer Group Oct 2026

VIP Meet & Greet - South Africa

Your exciting adventure begins today, as you touch down in South Africa. On arrival you will receive a VIP meet and greet at the door of your aircraft with your name on a paging board. Should your aircraft be directed to the apron and not the terminal building, you will be transported to the terminal by bus where you meet and greet will be waiting for you as you step off the bus. You will then be assisted through immigration, baggage collection and customs and on to your next service.

Private transfer to the hotel

Cape Town

The Mother City has a peculiar habit - once a day, Capetonians check their watches. Now, this in itself is not very unusual. The strangeness comes into the fact that everyone looks at their watches at exactly the same time without consciously thinking about it. At exactly 12:00 pm every day, a loud bang fired from cannon on Signal Hill announces to the city that midday has arrived.

The Cape was established by the Dutch East India Company (VOC) as a halfway house along the trade route between the East and Europe. This became a place to mend ships, rest and heal weary visitors and most importantly to collect fresh produce grown by farmers in the area in order to feed famished sailors and soldiers before heading off again for the second leg of their arduous sea voyage. Cape Town grew quickly and soon earned the reputation as the ‘Tavern of the Seas’. Today Cape Town is still a thriving port and never ceases to enthrall visitors with its unique beauty, ethnic diversity and energetic vibe.

With its iconic Table Mountain backdrop, Cape Town is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. An eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects both the area’s history and the more pragmatic realities of the 21st century. The city’s Edwardian and Victorian buildings have been carefully preserved, and many excellent examples of Cape Dutch architecture are found in the city and its environs.

The ability to make something that is both functional and beautiful has long been a proud aspect of the African culture. Cape Town boasts some of the most original and creative handmade arts and crafts and can be found at markets and shops all over Cape Town. You'll find something that caters for any taste or style at the V&A Waterfront or at one of the many shops that open their doors in the surrounding Cape Town area.

Being a coastal town, the ocean plays an important part in everyday lives, beyond the calming effect for which it's famous. There is an incredible diversity of marine life to be discovered and many fun-filled activities can be planned to make use of the bountiful Atlantic and Indian Oceans surrounding Cape Town

Table Mountain

After breakfast at your hotel, your guide will meet you in the lobby for your excursion to one of the world’s most iconic natural landmarks, Table Mountain. Early morning is the ideal time to visit, before the famous “tablecloth” of clouds rolls over the summit and conceals its magnificent views. Rising more than 1,000 meters above sea level, Table Mountain stands as a majestic sentinel over Cape Town, its flat-topped summit forming a dramatic contrast to the blue sweep of sky and ocean beyond. The mountain has long been a symbol of the city. It is timeless, commanding, and ever-changing in the shifting light of dawn and dusk.

As you begin your ascent, the surrounding landscape reveals a captivating fusion of rugged cliffs and delicate flora. Table Mountain forms part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, the smallest yet most diverse of the planet’s six floral kingdoms. Along the trails, you’ll encounter fynbos vegetation found nowhere else on Earth: the striking Protea, delicate Erica, and reed-like Restio. Together, these plants create a living tapestry of color and texture that reflects the region’s extraordinary biodiversity. The mountain’s geology is equally fascinating. Layers of ancient sandstone, weathered by wind and rain over hundreds of millions of years, rise in sculpted formations that tell the story of the Earth’s deep past. Each bend in the trail offers a new vantage point with sweeping views across Cape Town, the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, and the rugged Twelve Apostles range extending toward the Cape of Good Hope. Wildlife thrives among the rocks and shrubs. You may spot the curious rock hyrax, or *dassie*, sunning itself on a boulder, or hear the distant call of a sugarbird darting between flowering Proteas. The crisp mountain air, the scent of fynbos, and the silence broken only by the wind all combine to create a profound sense of place.

Whether you explore its summit plateau or simply pause along the way to admire the panorama, Table Mountain is more than a scenic destination, it is a sacred landscape that embodies the spirit and beauty of Cape Town itself. Standing atop its timeless slopes, one cannot help but feel connected to the enduring heart of Africa’s southernmost city.

Cape Town half day city tour

Wander through the Company's Garden and as you travel through the city you will get a good feel for the city and the cultural melting pot that it is. Continue onto the Castle of Good Hope which was built by the Dutch East India Company, between 1666 and 1679, as a maritime replenishment station and is the oldest surviving building in the country. Visit the gardens, known as the Company Gardens and admire the beautiful buildings constructed. Learn more about the history of the Cape, its significant role historically and in modern times. A day filled with information on the one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Groot Constantia

Groot Constantia wine farm is testimony of how one man’s love for wine established South Africa’s first wine farm in 1685. Groot Constantia continues to produce legendary wine since 1685. It is South Africa’s oldest wine-producing farm. The farm is an important part of World Wine Heritage and a world-class international tourism destination. So much so that it captures the rich and diverse heritage of South Africa. The farm delivers a unique cultural, social and historical experience, to locals and tourists alike. It delivers world-class, quality wines, sensory encounters and special experiences. It is an iconic example of the preservation of South African culture and heritage.

Cape Point & Boulders Penguin Sanctuary

Depart the hotel this morning to begin your tour of the Cape Peninsula. Your journey takes you past the iconic 12 Apostles and Hout Bay, winding along Chapman’s Peak Drive. This dramatic mountain route offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. After descending the pass, you will continue along the coastline.

This scenic stretch, known as the Atlantic Seaboard, spans approximately 34 miles from the waters of Table Bay along the western coast to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. With its striking beaches and rugged mountains, this route is not only a favorite for drivers but also a perfect vantage point for gazing across the Atlantic Ocean, where some of the world’s most stunning sunsets can be enjoyed.

The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve culminates at the majestic Cape Point, located at the convergence of two contrasting ocean currents: the cold Benguela Current on the west and the warm Agulhas Current on the east. While popularly thought of as the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, the site remains a spectacular natural landmark. Take the funicular to the vantage point for an unforgettable view of this dramatic seascape.

Another highlight of the day is Boulders Beach, home to a charming colony of endangered African penguins. Early settlers nicknamed them “jackass” penguins due to their distinctive braying call, which reminded them more of a four-legged animal than a two-footed bird!

Chapmans Peak

Chapman's Peak is a mountain on the western side of the Cape Peninsula, between Hout Bay and Noordhoek in Cape Town, South Africa. The western flank of the mountain falls sharply for hundreds of meters into the Atlantic Ocean, and a road, known as Chapman's Peak Drive, hugs the near-vertical face of the mountain, linking Hout Bay to Noordhoek. Tourists and locals often stop at viewpoints along this road, which offer views of Hout Bay, The Sentinel Peak and surrounds, as well as over Noordhoek Beach. Chapman's Peak Drive is part of the route of two of South Africa's biggest mass-participation races, the Cape Argus Cycle Race and the Two Oceans Marathon.

***Optional activities are not included in the tour cost

Gansbaai Harbor Shark Cage Diving

Transfer to Gansbaai for your adventurous day on the sea. The boat normally leaves the Gansbaai harbor at about 8:45 am and takes 15 to 20 minutes to reach the channel between Geyser and Dyer islands. After the chumming and baiting the first Great White shark hones in with deadly accuracy. The Great White shark makes a graceful and swift appearance from just below the sea level, leaping out of the water making its presence felt from nowhere. A dorsal fin and part of the tail silently slice up through the water, leaving barely a wake. The undisputed lord of the deep has arrived! Passengers can experience excellent surface viewing of the great white sharks from the boat's upper deck, getting an all-round view of the sharks, circling and descending. It is the ideal spot to capture some fantastic shark pictures or shoot video footage. For the brave you can go down in the shark cage for up close and personal encounter.

Great White sharks can smell the chum slick (crushed tuna/skipjack or sardines) from a considerable distance. In addition, our crew pulls decoys or bait lines closer to the cage and boat to lure the magnificent creatures even closer. The shark, being an inquisitive creature, often comes right up to the boat, bringing its head above the sea level far enough out of the water that you can touch it. The banks of awesome razor edged teeth are but centimeters away - the huge gaping jaws revealing the true danger of an imminent encounter! Return to your hotel later this afternoon.

Whale Watching

Explore the magnificent coastline and bay in search of an incredible array of marine life, including whales, dolphins, sharks, seals, and seabirds. In addition to Southern Right Whales, you may spot Bryde’s Whales, Humpback Whales, and, if you’re lucky, even Great White Sharks. The waters are also home to Cape Fur Seals, African Penguins, sunfish, and a wide variety of coastal birds.

No two trips are ever the same, but years of experience have shown that sightings of whales, dolphins, sharks, seals, and coastal birds are frequent. While Southern Right Whale sightings have declined slightly in recent years, Bryde’s and Humpback Whales are appearing more often than ever. Dolphin encounters are particularly thrilling, with playful Bottlenose Dolphins, lively Common Dolphins, and the endangered Humpbacked Dolphins all possible. The Cape Fur Seal population continues to grow, and you may even glimpse a Great White Shark.

Although no specific species can be guaranteed, seasonal patterns offer a good indication of what you are likely to see. Keep in mind that all wildlife is observed in its natural environment, so sightings can never be certain. Since the excursion takes place along the coast, it’s recommended to bring warm clothing to stay comfortable.

Robben Island

Walk across the plaza to the Robben Island Ferry dock at the V&A Waterfront and depart on a scheduled boat trip across Table Bay to Robben Island. On arrival guests will be met by their guide, and then taken on a bus ride with the guide providing commentary. Stop and visit the infamous Maximum Security Prison as well as the Murray's Bay Harbor precinct attractions, such as the Muslim shrine, or kramat, and the Museum Shop. The tour includes a 7-mile boat trip, which takes about half an hour each way and the tour lasts about three hours. ( Weather Dependent )

Franschhoek Wine Tram Hop-on Hop-off

The Franschhoek Wine Tram hop-on hop-off tour is one of the best ways to discover the true essence of this picturesque valley, its rolling vineyards, breath-taking scenery, warm hospitality, world-class cuisine, fine wines and a 300-year history. The Hop-on Hop-off Experience, allows you to do just that – hop on and off as you like, experiencing the different activities on offer, be it wine tasting, a cellar tour, lunch or just a stroll through the vineyards. And when you’re ready, simply hop-on to continue your journey.

Take your pick between ten different lines, each visiting a selection of wine estates showcasing a separate part of the Franschhoek Valley. The Hop-on Hop-off experience allows you to curate and plan your own day. You get to choose how long you spend at each spot (within the line schedule, of course), where you eat, where you drink, and the activities you partake in. There are 10 lines to choose from which takes you to 8 or 9 top wine estates.

Your experience begins at either the Franschhoek Terminal or the Groot Drakenstein Terminal (depending on the line), where you can grab a coffee, beignet and browse for merchandise while waiting for your journey to start. From the terminals, you will be transported around your selected line’s loop of stops on a combination of double-decker tram and open-air tram-bus, allowing you to disembark when you like. Wine tasting fees at each Wine Estate are for own account

Explore the V&A Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront, which attracts roughly 24 million visitors each year, is South Africa’s most-visited destination. This is hardly surprising when you think about how much it has to offer!

While it is still technically a working harbour – you’ll no doubt catch a glimpse of fishing boats and container ships – the V&A Waterfront is more frequently thought of as a shopping destination. Covering 123 acres, the V&A Waterfront is divided up into five shopping districts: Victoria Wharf, the Watershed, The Alfred Mall and Pierhead, The Clock Tower, and Breakwater Point. With more than 450 stores, you’ll find everything from local designers to big international brands. For crafts and local talent, make sure you pop into the Watershed, and, if it’s art or jewellery you’re after, head over to The Alfred Mall and Pierhead.

All that shopping is likely to work up an appetite, and the myriad restaurants, coffee shops and fast-food outlets will keep you fuelled. Of course, some of the restaurants and bars are reason enough to visit the V&A Waterfront. The majority of the restaurants at the V&A Waterfront have excellent views of the harbour, and those that don’t – such as Willoughby & Co – make up for it with top-notch food. (Really, the sushi is hard to beat!) If you after something a little more relaxed, head over to the V&A Food Market where you’ll find regional delicacies, artisanal breads and cheeses, craft beers, vegan treats, and biltong. It’s foodie heaven! If it’s a hot day – or even if it’s not – make sure you swing by The Creamery for a scoop of the best ice-cream in town.

For sundowners, you’ll want to try the Grand Café & Beach or the trendy Shimmy Beach Club, where the beautiful views vie with the gorgeous patrons for your attention. Bascule Bar at the Cape Grace hotel offers a sophisticated whisky-tasting experience, and Belthezar on Victoria Wharf reputedly has the widest selection of wine by the glass in the world!

*** Explore the V&A waterfront at your own pace

Private transfer to the Airport

Internal Flight from Cape Town International Airport to Hoedspruit

Karongwe Private Game Reserve

Karongwe Private Game Reserve, overlooking the majestic Drakensberg mountain range in the Limpopo Province, is set apart from similar properties by the extraordinary lengths they are willing to go to in order to ensure that your stay is a memorable experience. It is the people that create the magic of Karongwe and the dedicated and professional team want to work on one of the best natural game reserves in the Greater Kruger. Traversing over the 9000 hectares of supreme African bushveld, the Karongwe Reserve is home to the Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino and Elephant) as well as a wealth of other creatures. The magnificent game viewing makes for perfect photographic opportunities; enjoy the view of the Lowveld from a “kopje” amid the lush vegetation, huge variety of trees and over 365 different bird species.

Private transfer to the lodge

Game Drives in Karongwe Private Game Reserve

There are two game drives per day, during which your experienced game ranger and local Shangaan tracker would share their extensive knowledge and love of the African bush with you. Each drive lasts about three hours with an intermediate break.

During the morning game drive you will be spoiled with coffee and homemade rusks and in the afternoon your ranger will find a suitable spot where you can enjoy the stunning views, whilst enjoying your sundowner drink. After sundowners your tracker will use the spotlight to find nocturnal animals, before returning to the lodge for dinner. Your ranger will discuss the various game drive regulations before you leave camp.

The safari vehicles in South Africa are open-air, which allows for maximum game viewing for all seated participants. Blankets and hot water bottles are often supplied during the colder winter months: the African bush can be very cold during the early morning hours! The afternoon game drives typically return to the lodge after sunset, which allows for some nighttime game watching. Your tracker, assisted by a powerful hand light, will search for nocturnal species through the light reflecting off their eyes. This is the epitome of safari excitement!

Return from your afternoon activity with some time to freshen up and enjoy pre-dinner cocktails. Then, join your fellow safari-goers at the dining table and share stories on your wildlife adventures while enjoying the lodges’ superb cuisine.

Karongwe Private Game Reserve

Karongwe Private Game Reserve, overlooking the majestic Drakensberg mountain range in the Limpopo Province, is set apart from similar properties by the extraordinary lengths they are willing to go to in order to ensure that your stay is a memorable experience. It is the people that create the magic of Karongwe and the dedicated and professional team want to work on one of the best natural game reserves in the Greater Kruger. Traversing over the 9000 hectares of supreme African bushveld, the Karongwe Reserve is home to the Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino and Elephant) as well as a wealth of other creatures. The magnificent game viewing makes for perfect photographic opportunities; enjoy the view of the Lowveld from a “kopje” amid the lush vegetation, huge variety of trees and over 365 different bird species.

Game Drives in Karongwe Private Game Reserve

There are two game drives per day, during which your experienced game ranger and local Shangaan tracker would share their extensive knowledge and love of the African bush with you. Each drive lasts about three hours with an intermediate break.

During the morning game drive you will be spoiled with coffee and homemade rusks and in the afternoon your ranger will find a suitable spot where you can enjoy the stunning views, whilst enjoying your sundowner drink. After sundowners your tracker will use the spotlight to find nocturnal animals, before returning to the lodge for dinner. Your ranger will discuss the various game drive regulations before you leave camp.

The safari vehicles in South Africa are open-air, which allows for maximum game viewing for all seated participants. Blankets and hot water bottles are often supplied during the colder winter months: the African bush can be very cold during the early morning hours! The afternoon game drives typically return to the lodge after sunset, which allows for some nighttime game watching. Your tracker, assisted by a powerful hand light, will search for nocturnal species through the light reflecting off their eyes. This is the epitome of safari excitement!

Return from your afternoon activity with some time to freshen up and enjoy pre-dinner cocktails. Then, join your fellow safari-goers at the dining table and share stories on your wildlife adventures while enjoying the lodges’ superb cuisine.

Land transfer to Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is a South African National Park and one of the largest game reserves in Africa. It covers an area of 19,623 km2 (7,576 sq mi) in the provinces of Limpopo and Mpumalanga in northeastern South Africa, and extends 360 km (220 mi) from north to south and 65 km (40 mi) from east to west. The administrative headquarters are in Skukuza. Areas of the park were first protected by the government of the South African Republic in 1898, and it became South Africa's first national park in 1926.

All the big five game animals are found at Kruger National Park, which has more species of large mammals than any other African game reserve at 147 different species. Kruger supports packs of the endangered African wild dog, of which there are thought to be only about 400 in the whole of South Africa. Out of the 517 species of birds found at Kruger, 253 are residents, 117 non-breeding migrants, and 147 are nomads.

Game drives in Kruger National Park

Accompanied by your private guide, on-board the powerful open 4×4 Land Cruiser vehicle, you will have a once in a lifetime opportunity to explore the one hundred square kilometers private concession area within the Kruger National Park. Experience the inimitable thrills of a safari inside the National Park in pursuit of the legendary “Big Five” species that call our concession home. If you would like the unrivalled experience of discovering the magnificent Kruger National Park, or would like to spend time focusing on the smaller things out in the bush, the guiding team will be on hand to ensure that we provide you with an unforgettable wildlife experience.

FLIGHTS
- Guests going home will fly to Johannesburg and connect with their international flight in the evening
- Guests doing the extension will fly directly to Victoria Falls

Private transfer to the Airport

Internal flight from Skukuza Airport to OR Tambo International Airport

Departure Flight from Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport

Bid farewell to Africa, for now until your next Safari !

Private transfer to the Airport

Internal flight Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport to Victoria Falls

Meet & Greet - Zimbabwe

Private transfer to the lodge

Zambezi Royal Sunset Cruise

The luxurious, 28-seater single level cruise boat offers a unique and intimate way to view the Zambezi River. The boat is the first of its kind, custom built to maximize comfort, style, practicality and service. During the premium two hour guided Sunset cruise guests can look forward to 5-star service on board, consisting of imported wines and spirits, gourmet hot & cold canapés. The boat is on the river for about 2 - 2.5 hours.

Canapes as per menu below on the Sunset Cruise: Bacon Wrapped Chipolata Sausages, Mini Vegetarian Quiches, Crocodile Kebabs, Vegetarian Samosas, Crumbed Mushroom & Halloumi Skewers, Barbecue Marinated Chicken Wings, Meatballs stuffed with Mozzarella, Trio of Homemade Crisps, 'Chilli Bites' and puri (an unleavened Indian snack bread), Platter of Brie, Olives & Grapes. All accompanied by Sweet Chilli & a fresh Tartare Sauce.

Tour of Victoria Falls

Embark on a guided tour of Victoria Falls, strolling through the lush rainforest that surrounds one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Your guide will provide a fascinating overview of the Falls’ history while highlighting the unique flora, fauna, birdlife, and wildlife that thrive in this extraordinary environment. As you meander along the scenic ravine paths, you’ll encounter breathtaking viewpoints and glimpses of the wildlife that inhabit the area. Guides are always happy to assist with photographs, ensuring your memories of this spectacular destination are perfectly captured. While raincoats are provided when needed, it is recommended to bring a small poncho to stay comfortable during the misty moments near the falls.

Victoria Falls is truly a marvel of nature. Towering columns of spray rise when the Zambezi River is in full flow, while the thunderous roar of falling water reverberates through the gorge below. Upstream, tranquil lagoons hide hippos and the occasional crocodile, adding an element of wild intrigue. The Falls drop between 90 and 107 meters into the Zambezi Gorge, with an average of 550,000 cubic meters of water plunging over the edge every minute.

Remarkably preserved in its natural state, Victoria Falls captivates visitors just as it did the legendary explorer David Livingstone in the 1860s. Declared a National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is carefully protected, ensuring that this iconic natural wonder remains as inspiring and unspoiled as it has for centuries.

The Lookout Café Victoria Falls

The Lookout Café is an iconic restaurant in Victoria Falls where casual dining is a decadent affair. Menus range from cocktails and canapes to diverse meal options for seated dinners.
Imported wine from South African vineyards and flavors foraged from nature make the ‘place on a plate’ sentiment a reality. Delicious food, staggering views and exceptional service make the Lookout Café a must-try place to eat out in Victoria Falls. The Cafe’s simplistic design creates a flow through, connecting indoor and outdoor dining space, offering diners a unique experience with breathtaking views. If you are looking for a fresh, vibrant menu with traditional as well as new flavors like local game meats and crocodile, situated in a great location then the Lookout Café is the place for you.

Elephant Encounter

The Elephant Encounter offers guests a rare and unforgettable opportunity to quietly observe some of Africa’s most charismatic wildlife in a pristine wilderness setting overflowing with raw natural beauty. This immersive experience lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours and invites guests to learn about, connect with, and truly appreciate elephants in a respectful, ethical, and natural way.

The excursion begins in an open-air thatch boma overlooking the beautiful Masuwe River. Against this breathtaking backdrop, guests receive an informative and inspiring presentation about the Elephant Sanctuary and Orphanage. Founded on the principles of rehabilitation, conservation, and education, the sanctuary’s mission is to create awareness of the challenges elephants face in the wild and highlight what could be lost without meaningful environmental stewardship.

From there, guests venture into the bush to spend time with the elephants themselves. The chance to stand close to these gentle giants, observe their unique personalities, and witness their interaction with dedicated handlers is often a deeply emotional experience. You may take photographs, marvel at their size, and watch them browse, communicate, and behave exactly as nature intended.

After the encounter, guests are invited to enjoy a selection of refreshments before being transferred back to their lodge or hotel taking with them memories that last a lifetime.

Victoria Falls Town

A genuine bucket-list destination, Victoria Falls remains one of Africa's most famous tourist towns in Zimbabwe. Known world-wide as one of the ‘Seven Natural Wonders of the World’, there’s much more to the Victoria Falls than one of the world’s greatest waterfalls. The town is situated within the wider Victoria Falls National Park, while a short distance upstream lies the Zambezi National Park, and elephant, buffalo and various antelope species, including impala, kudu and waterbuck are common in the area, where residents co-existing with free roaming wildlife.

Many safari options are available from the town, including game drives, walking safaris and river boat safaris, with specialist birdwatching and fishing options. The Zambezi River above and below the Victoria Falls offers a variety of activity options, from scenic upstream river cruses to racing white-water rapids in the Batoka Gorge. Victoria Falls also makes the perfect base for exploring the wider region, with tours to prime safari viewing areas such as Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe), Chobe National Park (Botswana) and extended activity options in Livingstone (Zambia).

Or, meander through the vibrant town. Explore the Elephant’s Walk shopping village peppered with a variety of curio shops, a popular café with a peaceful indoor courtyard surrounded by beautiful flowers. Discover local craft markets showcasing the range of local artists and their talented handmade stone and wood carvings. A little further beyond you’ll find the award-winning Tammy Walker Gallery, a local artist known for her exceptional photography. The town centre offers delicious restaurants and coffee shops including a craft brewery, The Lookout Café offering unmissable views of the Victoria Falls bridge and supporting gorges with the chance to spot guests taking part in the adrenaline-rushing gorge swing or bungee jump!

Private transfer to the Airport

Internal flight from Victoria Falls to OR Tambo International Airport

Departure Flight from Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport

Bid farewell to Africa, for now until your next Safari !